Regarding Backlund: both sides of the argument can be right, here. Yes, he and Coleman do the heavy lifting against elite opposition. Great! They're good at it. Let them keep doing it. But they can do that from the 4th line, so put a two-way winger with them - not Coronato - and leave them to that role (with reduced minutes). And build 3 lines that can generate offense.
?????? - Zary - Coronato (could be a C with Zary on the wing)
?????? - Frost - Farabee
Huberdeau - Kadri - Sharangovich
Coleman - Backlund - Pospisil
They need 2 more forwards, to have a really solid 4 lines - maybe Honzek and/or Stromgren are ready to take a step? Maybe they look outside the organization? Maybe guys like Gridin or Suniev surprise at camp?
The time to embrace the youth and give them the team and let them run with it, is fast approaching. The veterans can take smaller roles, but still be here for leadership and solidity.
(I am talking more for next year, as I don't think anyone is ready yet)
|